Mexican Shell Flower
Tigridia pavonia 'T73-33'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Bulb Corm Tuber
Height
24 inches
Width
6 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
8, 9
Water
Medium
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
Perennial in suitable zones
Native To
Mexico
Toxicity
Bulbs are edible when cooked; other parts may cause mild stomach upset if ingested.
The Story
Plant Bio
Tigridia pavonia is a tender, bulbous perennial from Mexico with pleated, sword-like leaves. It produces a succession of striking, triangular flowers, each lasting only a single day. The flowers feature three large outer tepals and three smaller, intricately spotted or mottled inner tepals, creating a dramatic, exotic appearance. The T73-33 cultivar is distinguished by its particularly vibrant coloration and larger, more showy flowers, making it a standout choice for ornamental bedding and garden displays.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck bulbs 4 inches deep in well-draining soil in spring.
- Water regularly to keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Place in full sun for optimal blooming.
- Fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer during growing season.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Lift and store bulbs in winter in colder zones if necessary.
Pro Tip
Plant bulbs in well-drained soil in full sun for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during active growth 🌱
- Apply fertilizer monthly during blooming season
- Mulch to conserve moisture
Don't
- Overwater to prevent rot ❌
- Plant too deep or too shallow
- Neglect mulching
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Lift Store | ||||||||||||
| Plant |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Mexican Shell Flower questions
What zones can Mexican Shell Flower grow in?
Mexican Shell Flower is hardy in USDA Zones 8–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Mexican Shell Flower deer resistant?
Yes — Mexican Shell Flower is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Mexican Shell Flower bloom?
Mexican Shell Flower typically blooms in summer through late summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Mexican Shell Flower need full sun?
Mexican Shell Flower does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Mexican Shell Flower drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Mexican Shell Flower handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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Grow Mexican Shell Flower with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
